Interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar of Pakistan has directed law enforcement agencies, including the Frontier Corps, Pakistan Customs, and district administration, to intensify efforts in stopping smuggling activities.

He highlighted how influential individuals benefit from smuggling and emphasized the need to create alternative livelihood opportunities by establishing economic zones and industries in border areas.

Chairing a meeting on Afghan Transit Trade and anti-smuggling operations, PM Kakar stressed the importance of providing employment through social safety nets and skill development for local inhabitants. The meeting assessed the performance of various agencies, such as Pakistan Customs, Frontier Corps, and district administrations, in curbing smuggling, which has led to substantial savings for the national treasury.

The prime minister instructed the Ministry of Trade to monitor transit trade rigorously and share trends in exports. He pledged to eradicate smuggling, preventing job opportunities claimed by local entities engaged in illegal activities. The interim government vowed to continue combating smuggling until the end of its tenure, urging swift completion of scanning projects at border points.

PM Kakar urged Pakistan Customs to enhance border capacity to ensure stringent penalties for smuggling offenders. He emphasized the need for reputable officers in sensitive border districts and stressed transparent systems for postings and transfers. Additionally, he advocated for promoting legal trade, ensuring proper documentation, and implementing cargo monitoring systems in collaboration with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

The premier demanded an accelerated progress report on anti-smuggling efforts for the upcoming meeting and called for a comprehensive strategy from the Ministries of Trade and Industries to establish investment zones and industries in border areas.